A can holds cash and items used in cooking methamphetamine for injection. The items are part of the evidence collected during an Aug. 9 raid on a home in the 200 block of East Catherine Street.
Contributed photo

BEEVILLE — A 37-year-old man, his 35-year-old wife and their 18-year-old son were arrested last Thursday evening for methamphetamine manufacturing and possession following a drug raid on their home.

According to Police Chief Joe Treviño, narcotics investigators and the Beeville Police Department’s Special Weapons and Tactics Team stormed the residence at about 6 p.m. on Aug. 9, following a month-long investigation.

The suspects were all at home in the 200 block of East Catherine Street at the time of the raid.

Those arrested included Roman and Irene Merlo and their son, Jonathan Merlo.

One of the investigators on the case said officers found chemicals and equipment used to cook methamphetamine and they also located more than four grams but less than 200 grams of the drug in the home.

The charges included possession/transportation of certain chemicals with the intent to manufacture a penalty one narcotic and manufacture and delivery of a controlled substance, more than four grams but less than 200 grams.

The first charge is a second degree felony. If convicted of that offense, the three suspects face up to 20 years in prison and a $10,000 fine.

The second charge is a first degree felony. A conviction on that charge could result in a prison sentence of 99 years or life in prison and a $10,000 fine.

All three suspects were taken before Justice of the Peace Joe Lyvers, who set bond on them at $5,000 on each of the two charges for a total of $10,000.

According to officials at the Bee County Jail, Jonathan Merlo was released on bond on Aug. 10. His parents were still in custody as of Monday, Aug. 13.

Gary Kent is a reporter at the Bee-Picayune and can be reached at 358-2550, ext. 120, or at reporter@mySouTex.com.